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Arup Appoints APAC Managing Director to Drive Asia Pacific Growth

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Global sustainable development consultancy, Arup, is targeting significant growth in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region with the appointment of a new APAC Managing Director, TC Chew, who is set to drive ambitious expansion plans in one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. Accounting for 39 percent of global GDP and forecast to continue growth for the next 20 years, Mr Chew expects the APAC region will be an influential global powerhouse in steering sustainable development trends.

“From the unprecedented demand for digital and data services, the strength manufacturing for green energy technologies, and acceleration of urbanisation and creation of new capital cities, APAC has the potential to shape global sustainability targets in coming decades. Arup’s strengths in supporting sustainable outcomes across a range of growing sectors position us well to address the sizeable demand for resilient infrastructure, mobility, greener energy and vibrant, inclusive cities. Our focus in APAC will be supported by borderless collaboration across our offices, so our clients can better access the wide range of technical expertise we possess,” said Mr Chew.

Arup has a well-established market presence of over six decades with 28 offices across the APAC region and aims to grow its headcount of over 6,400 in APAC to around 10,000 by 2030. The firm launched its first office in the Asia Pacific region in Sydney, Australia in the 1960s to design engineering solutions for the iconic Sydney Opera House. Since then, it has grown into a collective of engineers, designers and built environment specialists shaping the built environment of some of the region’s most dynamic cities. Other major Arup projects have included the Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong, the Macau Bridge connecting the Macau Peninsula and Taipa, and the Merdeka 118 building in Malaysia.

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Mr Chew moves into the Managing Director role from his position as the firm’s Global Rail Business Leader, responsible for the design and delivery of major multidisciplinary projects around the world. Before joining Arup in 2018, he held a range of senior executive positions in the APAC region and will be relocating to Singapore for the position. As the base for the firm’s Managing Director and a strong concentration of APAC leadership, Singapore is recognised as a key strategic hub for driving growth and impact across the region.

The broader APAC Leadership Team will be distributed across the region which includes Kate West taking on the newly created role of Chief Officer, Business & Markets, APAC to oversee the growth and diversification of the firm’s business in the APAC region. New Market Leaders for the region will implement the growth and transformation ambitions for priority sectors which are Michael McGowan for Transport, Yoong Heng Tan for Energy, Water & Resources, and Anthony Chiu for Property, Science & Industry.

Paul Coughlan, Arup’s current global Chief Operations Officer will relocate to Singapore to take up the role of Chief Officer, Performance & Operations, APAC to oversee operations led by Managing Principals, Liam O’Donohue in Australia & New Zealand, Lau Ching Luan in Southeast Asia, and Theresa Yeung in East Asia.

“We will leverage the strong alignment of Arup’s strategic priorities with the APAC region’s accelerating global influence. Although it is one of the most diverse regions, it faces many shared challenges when it comes to confronting the interconnected crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality, while also being the most vulnerable region to the impacts of climate change,” added Mr Chew.

The new Arup APAC region structure and leadership team will come into effect from today, 1 April 2025.

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Hilton Garden Inn Celebrates Opening of 100th Hotel in Greater China

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Global hospitality company Hilton recently announced the official opening of its 100th Hilton Garden Inn property in Greater China, the Hilton Garden Inn Beihai Jiafu, marking a significant milestone for the brand in the Chinese market.

Hilton Garden Inn Beihai Jiafu boasts a prime location, offering both urban convenience and approachable, sophisticated design. The hotel is close to natural and cultural attractions such as Beihai Silver Beach, Qiaogang Customs Area, and Beihai Old Street. It is well-connected, just two kilometres from Beihai High-Speed Railway Station and six kilometres from Beihai Fucheng Airport, within a 20-minute drive to the Beihai International Passenger Port. The hotel features 199 rooms and suites, and its all-day dining restaurant, provides a relaxed environment for culinary enjoyment and social interaction. Additionally, the hotel offers a 24-hour retail store, a fitness centre, and a self-service laundry room, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free stay for guests.

“We are delighted to witness another glorious moment for the Hilton Garden Inn brand in the Chinese market at the end of 2024. The opening of the Beihai Jiafu Hilton Garden Inn not only demonstrates our brand’s rapid growth but also reinforces our long-term commitment to the Chinese market,” said Qian Jin, president of Hilton Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. “We look forward to 100 Hilton Garden Inns hotels in Greater China playing a significant role in the cultural and tourism market, meeting the increasingly diverse needs and travel scenarios of the new generation of guests, and continuing to lead the wave of the upscale focused service market.”

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Since the opening of the first Hilton Garden Inn in Shenzhen in 2014, the brand has rapidly expanded in China’s upscale-focused service market. From the Hilton Garden Inn Shanghai Lujiazui, Hilton Garden Inn Beijing West Railway Station, and Hilton Garden Inn Chengdu Chunxi Road Center, in core urban business districts, to emerging cultural and tourism destinations such as Hilton Garden Inn Guilin Yangshuo, Hilton Garden Inn Jingdezhen Taoyuan Valley, Hilton Garden Inn Aksu Downtown, and Hilton Garden Inn Beihai Jiafu, the brand’s footprint spans across first-tier cities, new first-tier cities, and numerous emerging destinations.

“While celebrating this incredible milestone, we’re also optimistic about further growth ahead for Hilton Garden Inn”, said Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “With over 200 Hilton Garden Inn properties under development across Asia Pacific, we are building on our strong track record of success in China where we’ve continued to develop this brand to meet evolving customer preferences.”

In 2025, Hilton Garden Inn will further consolidate its position in key markets in China, including Shanghai, Tianjin, Chengdu, and Suzhou, and debut in quality tourist destinations such as Zhangjiajie, Ordos, Huangshan, Shanwei and Jinan. While rapidly increasing the number of hotels, the Hilton Garden Inn brand continues to innovate and this year launched Hilton Garden Inn · Gen A in response to evolving preferences in the Chinese market.

“Reaching 100 Hilton Garden Inn properties in Greater China highlights the brand’s rapid development in the Chinese market but also signifies Hilton Garden Inn’s commitment to keeping pace with the fast-changing needs of Chinese guests and owners. The growing influence of Generation Alpha and Generation Z on travel is driving industry transformation, and we are pleased to embrace these changes and opportunities continuing to focus on product innovation and quality optimisation to provide guests with a relaxed and enjoyable travel experience,” said Jenny Milos, vice president, Brand Management, Suites and Focused service, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

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Dongfeng Truck Enters Jakarta in Special Brand Event

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On 20 February 2025, the Southeast Asia DONGFENG Day 2025 brand event was grandly inaugurated in Jakarta, Indonesia. Over 100 representatives from dealers, partners, and financial and media guests gathered from Southeast Asian countries and the ASEAN region, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore, to review the achievements of Dongfeng Truck in 2024 and witness the unveiling of the new models DONGFENG GX, DONGFENG KC PRO, and DONGFENG KC PLUS, and outline the strategic blueprint for 2025.

The event showcased multiple exhibition areas, including port logistics, expressway, and mining areas. The exhibits covered a variety of models such as tractors and dumpers, as well as components like engines, transmissions, and wheel reduction axles. Dongfeng Truck highlighted both new energy and traditional energy solutions, delivering forward-looking technologies and specialised products across various scenarios. Focused on reliability, intelligence, and trust, Dongfeng Motor aims to create “the most reliable Chinese truck brand” to meet the diverse needs of global customers.

Ma Lei, Managing Director of China Dongfeng Motor Industry Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd., attended the event and stated that Dongfeng Motor will always maintain an open and inclusive attitude, collaborate with local partners to accelerate overseas business extension and promote the vigorous development of the local industry.

Zhang Xiaofan, Deputy General Manager of the Dongfeng Motor Corporation Commercial Vehicle Department and Managing Director of Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle Co., Ltd., outlined the brand strength with the core values of “reliable, intelligence, and trust”. Dongfeng Truck prioritises reliable quality, advancing in new energy, intelligent networking, and automation. It actively lays out a smart logistics ecosystem, builds a mature sales network, and creates a fast and efficient service support system. These efforts aim to provide global customers with the comprehensive value of products and support sustainable development in transportation and logistics.

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Dongfeng Motor has made a significant move in the Southeast Asia market as part of its global layout. Export business has always been one of the key drivers for the sales growth of Dongfeng Truck. Yang Tao, Deputy Managing Director of China Dongfeng Motor Industry Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd., introduced the strategic plan for the Southeast Asia market from five perspectives: product, service, manufacturing, financing, and value. Currently, Dongfeng Truck has developed the GX, KC Plus, and KR platforms in the local market, offering a full range of high-end, medium, and mainstream products with both diesel and new energy options to meet Indonesia’s customised needs. In the future, Dongfeng will continue to enhance local manufacturing capabilities, provide diversified financial solutions, and pursue win-win partnerships.

High-end intelligence, redefining the benchmark. Ma Lei, Zhang Xiaofan, and dealer representatives unveiled the three new vehicles, DONGFENG GX, DONGFENG KC PRO and DONGFENG KC PLUS, which showcased top technologies and leading adaptability in Jakarta. These models are designed to be best-sellers with core features tailored to specific scenarios.

As a logistics specialist, the flagship DONGFENG GX matches world-class standards and has become a globally classic bestseller, with annual global sales exceeding 10,000 units. It has enhanced reliability by 30 percent through over 130 technological improvements and features an L2+ intelligent driving assistance system with a 95 percent takeover rate on highways, making it capable of handling extreme scenarios. It continues to lead the high-end express logistics market, setting a new benchmark for heavy-duty trucks.

DONGFENG KC PRO is designed for heavy-duty transportation in mining and port areas. It features an integrated balanced suspension for strong anti-rolling ability. It is equipped with a dCi-465ps industry-leading powertrain, which is more efficient and powerful. It has shown excellent reliability through long-term use by millions of customers. The DONGFENG KC PLUS is a high-performance heavy-duty dumper launched by Dongfeng Truck. It meets the Euro V emission standards and features an integrated chassis and hoisting design, offering strong carrying capacity and excellent overall performance. It is a reliable choice for heavy-duty transportation.

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Built Environment Sector Gets a $100M Boost To Drive Next Phase of Industry Transformation

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Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration, Mr Desmond Lee unveiled a $100 million Built Environment Technology and Capability (BETC) grant to support the industry for the next phase of transformation in the Built Environment (BE) sector, with outcomes aligned with the Built Environment (BE) Industry Transformation Map (ITM). This will provide support to more ITM areas and emphasise longer-term capability building to advance transformation. The BETC grant will support BE firms in developing new capabilities in enterprise, technology and manpower, enhancing their competitiveness in an evolving industry landscape.

This comes against the backdrop of the BE sector making significant strides in key BE ITM transformation areas between 2023 and 2024 – Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) adoption in new developments rose from 58 percent to 67 percent, while Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) uptake increased from 61 percent to 68 percent. Good progress has also been made for the Singapore Green Building Masterplan “80-80-80” targets. As of December 2024, about 61 percent of buildings by Gross Floor Area (GFA) were greened; close to 26 percent of new developments were certified as Super Low Energy (SLE) buildings, and top-performing buildings showed 72 percent better energy efficiency compared to 2005 levels.

Supporting Longer-term Capability Building through the BETC Grant

The BETC grant incentivises BE firms to embark on their next bound of transformation and capability building to achieve higher productivity, a higher-skilled workforce and stronger collaboration. Applicants will need to demonstrate how they plan to apply the new capabilities that they aim to develop, not just for a standalone project, but also for their subsequent projects. They will also need to outline how this would be aligned to their company’s longer-term goals. The capabilities and transformation outcomes should surpass relevant industry standards. This is to enable more impactful, and sustained transformation within the firms, and in turn, in the sector.

The BETC grant will be available for application on the Business Grants Portal (BGP) from 1 April 2025, for a period of five years. BE firms, including developers, main builders, sub-contractors, consultants, prefabricators, and suppliers can apply. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) may receive up to 70 percent funding support, while non-SMEs may receive up to 50 percent funding support in the first two years. The funding support will be determined based on the expected transformation outcomes committed by the applicant.

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Strengthening the Talent Pipeline and Business Sustainability

Second Minister for Finance and Second Minister for National Development Ms Indranee Rajah provided an update on the Taskforce’s initiatives during MND’s Committee of Supply (COS). Set up in September 2024, the Taskforce brings together industry and Government bodies to co-create solutions to common challenges. The Taskforce has also engaged close to 200 stakeholders to solicit feedback and suggestions. The stakeholders consulted include students, young professionals, and representatives from consultancy firms, service buyers, Trade Associations and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs).

Improving Business Sustainability

The Taskforce recognises the industry’s concerns on how aggressive tender bidding behaviours and fee-diving could undermine firms’ ability to invest in human capital, technology and innovation. As a major buyer of BE consultancy services, the Government has been progressively enhancing our procurement approach to deter fee-diving and strengthen quality-based procurement. Today, the majority of public sector tenders are awarded to bids with top-quality scores. To further promote fairer and more quality-based procurement and give the industry greater assurance to invest more in human capital and innovation, the Government will:

  • Expand the ‘Reduced Fee Score’ pilot, which was first introduced in March 2024, to more projects. The “Reduced Fee Score” formula disqualifies outlier bids that are substantially lower than other bids in the same tender. This will ensure that procurement decisions prioritise quality and business sustainability even more, rather than awarding projects to unsustainable low bids that may compromise the eventual outcomes.
  • Review contractual clauses to ensure fairer balance of risks between public sector service buyers and BE consultants. This includes reviewing the “Limitation of Liability” clause in the Public Sector Standard Consultancy Agreement, and the “Fit for Purpose” clauses in the Public Sector Standard Conditions of Contract for Design & Build (D&B) construction contracts. This will provide greater assurance to firms, and make the professions more sustainable. The Taskforce is engaging the private developers to encourage adoption of similar procurement approaches.

Investing in Talent Pipeline and Better HR Practices

To support the career development and experience of in-service talents, the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), the Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore (ACES) and the Institute of Human Resource Professionals (IHRP) will form a new partnership to roll out HR transformation support for member firms.  The partnership will progressively support firms in identifying areas for improvement using the Human Capital Diagnostic Tool (HCDT), building a community of practice to share best practices and address common issues, and refer firms to resources to transform HR practices within firms.

To help strengthen the talent pipeline and make BE careers a career of choice, the Taskforce is working with industry stakeholders and IHLs to propagate more enriching internship experiences (e.g. the Integrated Work-Study Programme offered by Singapore Institute of Technology) and review the starting salaries for fresh graduates. The Taskforce is heartened that several progressive firms, such as Arup Singapore, Beca, DP Architects, and ID Architects have taken the lead in adopting these initiatives. The Taskforce will engage more firms to jointly improve the attractiveness of BE careers to Singaporeans keen to play a role in building a more sustainable, inclusive and endearing Singapore.

Support for Industry and Workforce Transformation

To help firms and professionals identify the transformation support that best meet their needs, BCA will launch a one-stop compilation of available support resources and programmes (including BETC) made available by Government agencies, the Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs), Institutes of Higher Learning and other stakeholders. TACs can then guide their member firms and professional associations accordingly.

The Taskforce is also looking at how the TACs can take on a leading role in catalysing transformation of member firms and uplifting the professions, such as in the areas of branding, outreach, HR practices and technology adoption. Ms Indranee Rajah also updated on several other initiatives including the Code of Accessibility 2025.

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LIXIL Releases Annual Lifestyle Trend Analysis for 2025

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Shifting lifestyles, evolving consumer values, and global challenges are redefining the way we design and experience spaces. As people navigate busier, more digitally connected lives, there is a growing need for homes that promote well-being, offering moments of rest and sanctuary. At the same time, individuality has become more prominent than ever, especially among younger generations, with people seeking to express their identities through personalised interiors that tell their own stories. There is a growing demand for flexibility, driven by hybrid work models and multi-generational living, requiring spaces that can easily adapt to changing needs.

Sustainability concerns are pushing both consumers and organisations to make more responsible choices, prioritising durability, efficiency, and low-impact materials. Meanwhile, in the hospitality industry, travellers are looking for deeper, more meaningful connections with their destinations, driving a shift toward immersive, sensory-driven experiences. Together, these forces are influencing how homes, workplaces, and travel experiences evolve to meet the needs of a changing world.

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Home as a Wellness Space

The home is increasingly being enhanced as a sanctuary for both physical and mental well-being. People seek spaces that feel private and personal – havens where they can relax, recharge, and disconnect. The bathroom, in particular, has taken a central role, with growing demand for products that incorporate technology to create personalised, spa-like bathing experiences.

While many have returned to office life, a significant number continue to work from home, spending extended hours indoors. This has fueled a desire for cosier, more inviting spaces that can enhance work productivity and off-work relaxation. Earthy, nature-inspired hues – such as sage, muted blues, and ochre – help cultivate a sense of calm and serenity, making them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Deeper shades like burgundy, browns, terra-cotta, deep rust, and mossy greens add warmth, depth, and a refined elegance, making spaces feel both comforting and intimate. The use of natural materials is also on the rise, bringing warmth and sophistication through texture. Raw, untreated surfaces that develop character over time add authenticity and a sense of history to interiors.

At the same time, the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces continues to blur. Integrating nature into the built environment has never been more important, particularly in dense urban settings where space is limited. Greenery and organic elements not only enhance the aesthetics of the space but also foster a deeper connection to nature, helping to soothe both body and mind.

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Personalised Interiors

People are no longer designing their homes just to follow trends. More than ever, they want their homes to reflect their personalities and lifestyles, using their living spaces to tell their own unique stories. Whether through cultural influences, historical references, or personal traditions, interiors are becoming deeply individual expressions of identity. From carefully chosen artworks, to furniture and decor that reflects travels and experiences, every design choice blends into a larger, curated space of treasured stories and memories. This shift toward personalisation transforms homes into living reflections of their inhabitants, where every detail holds meaning and a sense of connection.

This shift toward personalisation is particularly pronounced among younger generations who are immersed in social media. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have made interior design inspiration increasingly accessible, encouraging people to experiment with colours, finishes, and unique design elements that reflect their tastes. As a result, we’re seeing a move away from uniform, mass-produced aesthetics toward interiors that feel unique and individualistic.

From bespoke furniture and handcrafted details to bold colour palettes and unexpected material combinations, homeowners are embracing design choices that celebrate their uniqueness. At its core, this trend is about creating spaces that feel meaningful and lived-in – homes that tell a story, evoke emotion, and evolve with their inhabitants over time.

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Multi-Purpose Spaces

With remote and hybrid work remaining a reality for many, homes are increasingly expected to adapt seamlessly to different needs throughout the day. People want spaces that can effortlessly shift between personal and professional use, or transition smoothly from a productive workspace during the day to a relaxing retreat in the evening. This has led to a preference for open, flexible layouts with fewer dividing walls, allowing rooms to serve multiple functions. Traditionally private spaces, such as bathrooms, are evolving to accommodate shared experiences, much like kitchens have long been social hubs.

At the same time, demographic shifts, particularly in Asia, where populations are ageing, are driving the rise of multi-generational living. Homes are being designed to accommodate different age groups under one roof, with adaptable spaces that cater to various needs, from work and study areas to communal gathering spots. As flexibility becomes a priority, furniture and design solutions that maximise versatility, such as modular seating, fold-away desks, and movable partitions, are becoming more essential than ever.

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Sustainable Living

Sustainability is becoming a key consideration in home design as people grow more eco-conscious. They seek solutions that help them adopt greener habits, though not at the expense of comfort or convenience. This has driven demand for sustainable furniture made with eco-friendly materials and responsible manufacturing practices, as well as water- and energy-efficient home solutions that offer both environmental and financial benefits by reducing utility costs. Quality and durability are also becoming essential purchase criteria, as consumers prioritise long-lasting products over disposable alternatives.

The heightened environmental awareness is also influencing the way buildings are designed and constructed. Building owners and developers are embracing more sustainable strategies, from adaptive reuse of existing structures to energy-efficient designs that minimise environmental impact. Climate resilience is a growing focus, with weather-adaptive planning and innovative construction techniques helping to mitigate local climate challenges while reducing waste and carbon emissions. Sustainable materials, such as mass timber and low-impact cement, and finishes are becoming more common, reflecting a shift toward a more responsible approach to interior design and architecture.

Sensory-Driven Hospitality Experiences

The hospitality industry is evolving as it adapts to the needs of today’s travellers, who are increasingly seeking authenticity and experiences that resonate with their personal aspirations. Guests now want immersive, highly personalised stays that reflect the culture and essence of the destination, while also speaking to their desires for meaningful connections.

This shift is pushing hotels to go beyond aesthetics, creating environments that engage all the senses. Thoughtful details, such as curated scents, textures, and lighting, are being used to deepen emotional connections and enhance the overall guest experience. The bathroom plays a key role in the room, serving as a space where comfort and wellness converge. Personalised, restorative experiences – driven by carefully selected colours, materials, and wellness-focused solutions – help elevate the guest experience.

As guests seek more profound, genuine experiences that reflect their values, hotels are increasingly partnering with local communities to provide hyper-localised offerings by integrating cultural storytelling and incorporating local heritage, traditions, and craftsmanship. From collaborations with regional artisans to immersive cultural, culinary, and wellness experiences, the hospitality industry is evolving into a dynamic cultural space, enriching the traveller’s journey and creating lasting, meaningful connections.

These trends highlight the changes in how people interact with living environments – seeking spaces that are not only functional but also meaningful, adaptable, and deeply personal. Whether at home or in hospitality, the design of interiors is evolving to support well-being, individuality, sustainability, and immersive experiences that foster genuine connections. As lifestyles continue to change, the spaces we inhabit will need to be more intentional, flexible, and emotionally resonant, ensuring they enhance both daily life and long-term well-being.

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​​Singaporeans Can Feel Safer With Solity’s Push-Pull Gate and Door Smart Lock System

Reading Time: 2 minutes​​

Solity, a Korean manufacturer with more than 40 years of expertise in security solutions, is set to redefine home security with the launch of the push-pull smart lock system for gates – the first ever in the world. Making its debut at the IT Show 2025 at Suntec Singapore, Solity’s push-pull lock system combines cutting-edge facial recognition technology, seamless smart home integration with Matter, and an intuitive two-way locking mechanism for unparalleled user experience and security.

With a recent record-breaking transaction within the local public housing market, it is high time for homeowners and even developers to begin upgrading their units and taking both security and efficiency to the next level.

Solity’s combination of the G1 and GEA-1000K introduces a brand-new locking system with a motorised roller latch and mortise lock, eliminating the need for turning handles or twisting knobs. Additionally, the push-pull locking system integrates both the door (GEA-1000K) and gate (G1), which allows doors and gates to be unlocked from either side making the experience even more seamless and intuitive.

The advanced facial recognition system, which leverages a 3D Lens and AI deep learning technology, delivers lightning-fast and highly accurate authentication for homeowners to unlock their doors without the need to rely on physical keys or tapping in a PIN code. Unlike standard biometric systems, this advanced AI-driven solution continuously improves its recognition accuracy over time, adapting to different lighting conditions, angles, and even slight facial changes, ensuring secure and effortless access.

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On top of it all, the entire system is fully integrated with Matter, the latest industry-unifying smart home standard. With Matter compatibility, Solity’s G1 and GEA-1000K offer effortless connectivity across multiple smart home platforms, ensuring a seamless user experience across Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple Home. This eliminates the need for multiple apps and complex setups, allowing homeowners to control, monitor, and automate their security system from a single platform. This system also provides robust interoperability, ensuring long-term compatibility with future smart home innovations.

“Imagine coming home and your entire house comes to life when you simply unlock your door. The G1 and GEA-1000K combination represents a major leap forward in smart security for Singapore homeowners,” said Jay Park, Sales Manager at Solity. “With its unique push-pull mechanism, state-of-the-art AI facial recognition, and Matter-enabled connectivity, we are delivering the most advanced and user-friendly smart lock system to date.”

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Surbana Jurong Partners Odisha State Agencies on Energy and Urban Development Projects

Reading Time: 2 minutesSurbana Jurong Group (SJ) has signed two Memorandums of Understanding with two Odisha state agencies to collaborate on energy and urban development projects in Odisha, India. The signing took place as part of a business delegation visit to Odisha, during the State Visit to India by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on 14 to 18 January 2025.

The Memorandums of Understanding were signed with Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) for the strategic positioning and planning for Odisha Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR), as well as with Bhubaneswar Development Authority for a new city development plan near to state capital Bhubaneshwar. SJ will leverage its comprehensive multidisciplinary consultancy services in master planning, urban design, architectural design, engineering, and project management across the built environment and energy sector to deliver these projects in Odisha.

SJ’s Group Chief Executive Officer Sean Chiao said: “We’re excited to be contributing to Odisha’s growth story. Odisha is a state with immense potential, with rich natural resources and a young, vibrant population eager for progress. It’s an honour to collaborate with the state’s visionary leaders to advance their strategic plans for sustainable urban development and innovative energy solutions. By combining our global expertise with the local talent and insights of our India offices, we aim to create a lasting impact for the communities of Odisha.”

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Avinash Misra, Chief Executive, South Asia, SJ, added: “As India continues to urbanise rapidly and develop infrastructure to support its burgeoning economy, the demand for sustainable energy solutions and modern infrastructure presents a significant opportunity for SJ. Leveraging our extensive experience in delivering complex projects across diverse sectors, SJ’s India team is uniquely positioned to bring innovative and sustainable solutions to the projects in Odisha and across the region, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s built environment and energy sectors.”

SJ has been involved in some of India’s most ambitious projects that have made a tremendous difference for local communities. SMEC, an SJ company, engineered the 9-kilometre Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel above an altitude of 10,000 feet, shortening travel time between communities in the Himalayas by up to four hours. SJ is also working on the Noida International Airport that will enhance the connectivity of the National Capital Region and Western Uttar Pradesh with other cities in India and the world. Through strategic projects and the support of partners such as Enterprise Singapore, SJ will further expand its presence in India, playing a key role in the long-term growth and success of the country’s dynamic economy.

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Cushman & Wakefield Releases Report, Banking on Green Office Buildings in Singapore

Reading Time: < 1 minute

 

Is sustainability the key to stronger performance? Cushman & Wakefield’s data says yes. Green Mark-certified buildings in the CBD are not only maintaining occupancy rates 2.5 to 4 percent higher than non-certified ones but also commanding rents up to 12 percent higher for Platinum certifications. Since 2020, landlords have jumped on the sustainability bandwagon, upgrading to higher certifications.

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Cushman and Wakefield’s refreshed 2024 report reveals how going green is boosting value in Singapore’s office market. The report has found that going green boosts value for landlords in Singapore’s office markets with up to 12 percent higher rent and 4 percent higher occupancy rates.

Click here to download a full copy of the report.

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Volvo CE and PT Indotruck Utama launch New Generation EC210 Excavator into Indonesia

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) and its Indonesian dealer launched the New Generation EC210 Excavator with an eye-catching performance based on the epic Hindu legend of Mahabharata. The performance incorporated visual themes from the story to represent the leading technology, robust structure, reliable components, as well as the productivity of the new machine.

The Indonesian launch event for the New Generation Volvo EC210 Excavator was built around the theme of ‘Pandawa’ to celebrate local culture and align the strength, efficiency, and endurance of the machine with the legend of the Pandawa brothers, who overcame multiple challenges to save a village.

Bambang Prijono, President Director of PT Indotruck Utama (ITU) commented, “At PT Indotruck Utama, we are confident that the New Generation EC210 is the ideal solution for Indonesia’s diverse industries. With its superior efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance, this excavator is engineered to meet the evolving demands of our customers, whether in construction, mining, or infrastructure development. Just as the Pandawa brothers overcame challenges through their unique strengths, the New Generation EC210 is built to tackle the toughest job site conditions with precision and power.”

Introducing a New Era in Excavation

The New Generation EC210 excavator is an easy-to-own 20-ton crawler excavator that simplifies operations and maintenance. The launch event welcomed over 100 customers from various industries to get a detailed look at the machine’s robust design, advanced technology, and ability to offer exceptional return on investment.

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The New Generation EC210 comes with a high-performance Volvo engine that provides increased power and torque and features 10 work modes with optimised hydraulics for faster cycle times and better productivity. The heavy-duty design ensures long-term performance in any application, while safety is enhanced with 3-point side access, emergency shutdown, rearview camera, and anti-slip plates. Operator comfort is further improved with a ROPS cab and ergonomic controls.

Greater Fuel Savings

Advanced hydraulics reduce fuel consumption by up to 15 percent by intelligently regulating engine speed and hydraulic flow, leading to lower operating costs and the New Generation EC210 is designed for further efficiency with longer service intervals, easy service access, and a fuel shut-off valve to prevent spillage and minimise maintenance costs. Optional features such as Dig Assist and Volvo attachments like hydraulic breakers also enhance its versatility.

Tomas Kuta, President of Region Asia, Volvo CE, said, “The EC210 represents Volvo’s commitment to delivering innovative, high-performance machines that meet the evolving needs of our customers in Indonesia. By combining cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology, the Pandawa event truly brought the spirit of the New Generation EC210 to life.”

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BCA Appoints New Chairman and Welcomes New Board Members

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has announced that Professor Tan Thiam Soon will succeed Lim Sim Seng as its new chairman, effective 1 April 2025. Prof Tan, who currently serves as the BCA’s deputy chairman, will take on the top role after Lim steps down from the board.

In a joint statement, the Ministry of National Development and BCA acknowledged Lim’s leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic. Under his guidance, the BCA launched the refreshed Built Environment Industry Transformation Map in 2022. Lim also played a significant role in the recent industry branding efforts, including the launch of a public campaign to emphasise the sector’s contributions to building Singapore.

Prof Tan is an institute professor at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and served as the president of SIT from 2013 to 2021. Max Loh, a current board member of BCA, will assume the role of deputy chairman after Prof Tan’s appointment. Loh is a chartered accountant and serves as chairman of the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore.

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Additionally, three new members will join the BCA board on 1 April 2025. Tan Yoong Heng, Singapore country leader and member of the Australasia region board at Arup, John Lim, chairman of JL Family Office and co-founder of ARA Asset Management, and Dr. Fereen Liew, divisional director for income security policy at the Ministry of Manpower, will all begin their two-year terms.

The board will also bid farewell to two members, Wong Heang Fine, chairman of Asia Infrastructure Solutions, and Jasmin Lau, deputy secretary for policy at the Ministry of Health, whose terms will end on 31 March 2025. Nine current board members will be reappointed. Following these changes, the BCA board will consist of 14 members for the upcoming term.